Forty Hands

When Harry Grover teamed up with the Spa Esprit Group in 2010 to open 40 Hands on quaint Yong Siak Street, they were one of the first cafes in the city to offer Third Wave Coffee. The driving force here has always been to elevate coffee appreciation, especially when it comes to the complicated process behind producing fine artisan java. In fact, the name comes from the idea that it takes 40 hands to produce just one cup of coffee from planting the beans all the way to the final pour.

Why you should come here:

Not only does 40 Hands aim to put out the very best coffees made with premium beans, but they also try to promote sustainability by engaging in direct trade with coffee growers from various regions around the world. Then of course the cafe is just a cool and cosy spot to grab an espresso or a bite to eat with warm wood elements, a mix of high and low tables, and a chilled-out patio with funky wall murals and exposed pipes.

What we love:

This hip little spot in Tiong Bahru has great music, cool vibes, and good food and bevvies. The coffee is seriously good, and then menu has an eclectic array of offerings including the Banana Bacon French Toast, Truffle Fries, and Toasties with fillings like pesto chicken, falafel, and pork katsu. For brunch you can’t go wrong with the Eggs Cocotte with poached eggs, sauteed spinach, Portobello mushroom, truffle oil and homemade toast. You can also pair your meal with a single-origin cold-brew coffee, Mexican soda or craft beer or cider.

UJ Tidbit:

Expect a pretty lengthy wait on the weekends during peak brunch hours. If you’re not into queuing, try to come during the down times when things are less hectic.